Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies
Beginning August 21, 2020
POSITION SUMMARY. The Religious Studies and Theology program at Loras College invites applications for a full-time, tenure track, assistant professor position in Biblical Studies to begin fall 2020. Teaching load is seven undergraduate courses during the academic year (21 credits) in Christian scripture and comparative religion/theology, including curricular support for the Interfaith Leaders Program. This position also requires service to the college and archdiocese as well as an active research agenda commensurate with load. We seek candidates who evidence strong potential for excellent teaching in both the Religious Studies and Theology program and the general education curriculum. Relevant strengths include the use of creative and effective pedagogies, flexibility in teaching interests, and a commitment to broad and integrated learning.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE. Doctoral and master degrees in Biblical Studies or related fields; ABD applicants will be considered. The successful candidate may have a research focus in either Old Testament/Hebrew Bible or New Testament but must be able to teach a range of courses that include interpretations of both Testaments using contemporary approaches that include the Catholic tradition of biblical scholarship. Preferred candidates will be able to design courses in comparative scriptures, theologies, and religions. As a tenure-track opening, the position requires teaching seven undergraduate courses/year; occasional teaching of adult students in more pastoral settings; service to the college and archdiocese; and scholarship commensurate with load.
THE RELIGIOUS STUDIES AND THEOLOGY PROGRAM. The five full-time faculty members of the Religious Studies and Theology Program oversee an undergraduate major and minor and contribute courses to interdisciplinary minors in Catholic Studies, Peace and Justice, and Gender Studies. Program faculty collaborate with others at the college to explore and develop the college’s commitment to the Catholic intellectual tradition and extend their academic expertise beyond the college into pastoral contexts. Significant programs and initiatives which intersect with the program’s work include the Interfaith Leaders Program, Children of Abraham, Breitbach Catholic Thinkers and Leaders Program, the Archbishop Kucera Center for Catholic Intellectual and Spiritual Life, and the Archdiocese of Dubuque’s IMPACT program for lay formation and deacon formation program.
THE COLLEGE. Founded in 1839, Loras College is a Catholic, primarily undergraduate, liberal arts institution that includes pre-professional and career preparation programs, as well as several graduate programs. The Loras College community embraces the core values of truth, respect, responsibility excellence, and service that define the way we work, behave, and relate with others. These values align with our college mission: Loras, as a Catholic liberal arts college, creates a community of active learners, reflective thinkers, ethical decision-makers and responsible contributors in diverse professional, social and religious roles. The student body consists of approximately 1,500 students, over 90 percent of whom are full-time undergraduates.
THE COMMUNITY. Loras College’s 60 acre campus is located on one of Dubuque’s highest bluffs, overlooking the Mississippi River at the junction of the states of Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin, about 3 hours west of Chicago. Dubuque’s population is approximately 60,000 and its nineteenth century architecture is woven into limestone bluffs and provides a picturesque backdrop to the river landscape. Many residential and commercial areas have been designated as historical districts to preserve Dubuque’s unique heritage. Its strong education base supports numerous cultural activities, and in addition, there are sporting events, shopping facilities, schools, and churches that are convenient to its residents. The climate has marked seasons with a comfortable summer, cool spring and fall, and a winter that encourages a variety of sports that have in recent years attracted a growing tourism industry.
COMPENSATION. Commensurate with qualifications, education and experience. Fringe benefits include medical/dental/life/disability insurance, flexible spending plan, TIAA retirement plan, tuition remission program, family membership in Graber Sports Center/San Jose Pool, free admission to many college events and free off-street parking.
APPLICATION DEADLINE. Review of applications begins immediately. For more information contact Dr. Amanda Osheim, amanda.osheim@loras.edu, 563-588-7506.
APPLICATION. Go to: https://loras.applicantpool.com/jobs/ to upload your letter of application, curriculum vitae, teaching philosophy, research plans, and unofficial graduate-level transcripts. Have three letters of recommendation sent directly to the contact above. Additional materials may be requested at a later date.
Loras College is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an educational and work environment that is inclusive, rich in diversity, and supportive of all students, faculty and staff. Individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Please visit www.loras.edu for additional information about Loras College.
